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The high-chair tray, (f) and the circular red tray
especially made for children, (g) charmed their way into Sonja’s
collection.
Trays with dark backgrounds are the most common and
provide a nice contrast for the gold gilding on borders and pale-colored
flowers, (h) and (i), which were created by artisans using a
“one-stroke” painting technique. (j) Some trays originally came with legs, but often the trays were “married” to stands at a later date, which
allows them to be used as accent tables.
For Whom the Tole Sells
Antique shops, shows, and auctions are all good sources for vintage tole trays. Online
auctions like eBay.com also offer the trays, but Sonja says she has yet to add
to her collection from the internet site. “I don’t dare go there,” she says with
a laugh. “It would just feed my addiction.”Prices range from a few dollars to $2,000 or more
depending on the age, condition, and design of the tray. Antiques from the 1700s
and 1800s fetch the highest prices. Sonja may be reached at her shop, Summer House, in suburban St. Louis: (636) 256-0011.
Tole Calls page
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